Arizona switching to computer-only GEDs

Across the country, those that administer high-school equivalency tests, commonly called GEDs, are in transition.

The test will soon only be via certain computers at state testing centers and Arizona is right in the middle of the pack when it comes to adopting the new system.

“Currently in the state, you can take either the computer-based or paper-based test. Beginning in January, the GED test will only be available to the public on computer,” said Karen Liersch with the Arizona Department of Education.

As many as 20,000 adults take the test each year, with about 14,000 of those passing. GED tests provide 20 percent of the high school diplomas annually, according to ADE.

A portion of testing centers in the state have already transitioned to the test and administrators are giving positive feedback.

“Students seem to be finishing in a shorter period of time, the pass rate has been higher than the paper-based test although the online test isn’t any easier or more difficult,” said Liersch.

A major downside to the computer test is the price tag: It costs about $30 more to take than the standard GED.